Goalkeeper broke knee after football match

A footballer had his kneecap destroyed after he was attacked by a group with weapons including a baseball bat after a league match on Saturday.

Joel Collins, 32, is undergoing surgery after suffering a “life-changing injury” to his leg following his team Avenue Hotspur’s away match against Llanrumney Athletic in Cardiff.

Participants in Saturday’s match told BBC Wales a group attacked some Avenue Hotspur players as they left the changing rooms at Eastern Leisure Centre, Llanrumney, with baseball bats, bicycle seats and other weapons.

Police are investigating and Llanrumney Athletic said it “condemned the actions of the individuals involved” and believed the players and coaching staff did not participate.

According to the FAW results app, three red and two yellow cards were shown by the referee after the final whistle.

South Wales Police said they were investigating a ‘violent disorder’ which resulted in a ‘life-changing injury’.

Goalkeeper Collins is now in hospital awaiting surgery and is said to be in “good spirits”.

His club, Ely-based Avenue Hotspur, thanked those who had already given donations in an “overwhelming” response to a fundraiser for him amid fears he would be away for four months.

A club spokesperson said: “This shocking incident, which saw several players violently attacked as they left the changing rooms, is completely unacceptable and has been a deeply disturbing and frightening experience for all involved.

“As a family-oriented football club that is proud to represent the Ely community, we are committed to providing a fun, safe and inclusive environment for everyone and hope to be able to play again in the coming weeks.”

In a statement via the club’s X account, Llanrumney Athletic said it “wishes a speedy recovery to everyone injured in the incident” and said it is “cooperating with the authorities”.

“We strongly condemn the actions of the individuals involved in this incident,” the statement said.

“To the club’s knowledge, no players or coaching staff were involved in this incident and should any information contradict this, they will be dealt with accordingly.”

South Wales Police confirmed that “several assaults” had been reported after the match, as well as a vehicle being damaged.

Det Insp Daniel Todd said: “The level of violence was appalling and will not be tolerated.

“This incident has understandably shocked the community and must have been very distressing for everyone involved.”